Andrew MIchael Waggener

Andrew MIchael MIke' Waggener December 29, 1944 - April 2, 2018 San Diego Mike Waggener, an advocate of social justice and volunteerism, who organized Twilight in the Park concerts and who was a beloved docent at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park, died on April 2 in his home in San Diego. He was born in Winston Salem, NC, on December 29, 1944. He was 73 and died of a choking accident. The all-volunteer Twilight in the Park concerts, from 1981 to present, continue to welcome between 1000 3000 guests each Tues., Wed. and Thurs. from June - August at the Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park. As a docent at the Japanese Friendship Garden from its initial years Mike often said he was proudest of his tours of school children through the garden, introducing them to Japanese culture and philosophy. As an "Air Force brat" he spent his young years in Japan. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Mike remained an enthusiastic supporter of the Bucky Badgers and spoke weekly with a college friend of 50 years. He served in the Army in Vietnam and later worked as a civil servant for military families as a civil servant in Italy and Spain. He received a teaching credential from the University of San Diego. He is survived by his sisters, Janet Mauer and Judi Schlebecker, his niece and nephew, Michelle Mauer and Andy Schlebecker, and his loving partner, Pam McCormick. He will be greatly missed by his family and many lifelong friends. A military service followed by a celebration of his life will take place at a later date. An announcement will follow. Donations in his name can be sent to Friends of Balboa Park\Twilight.